Part 3 - Identify Project Need and Project Initiation Document

II. Project Initiation Document

When the PID nears completion, the project manager (PM) must obtain support cost estimates from each functional unit involved and compile an overall estimate of project capital and support costs. Typically, a copy of the Draft PID is provided to the Functional Units for their use in preparing support cost estimates.

Although, the PID will contain multiple alternatives and capital cost estimate, only one workplan and subsequent resources are developed. Therefore, the PDT should agree on which alternative and information should be used for resource and scheduling estimates. This is usually the most feasible and comprehensive alternative. This information must be shared with the functional units in order for them to accurately assess the necessary time and resources needed to complete their studies or tasks.

Some districts use Functional Unit Project Fact Sheets. in the preparation of project Workplans. Project Fact Sheets contain important project data that is used to assist Functional Units and the project manager in the development of a project Workplan and the Project Capital and Support Cost Estimate table. Functional Unit Project Fact Sheets contains basic project information, including scope, capital cost, and a preliminary schedule. Project Fact Sheets enable functional units to estimate their work effort based on the same project data when multiple alternatives exist.

The project engineer may be required to complete Fact sheets containing specific technical detail for Workplan resource estimating and help to ensure all Functional Units are on the same track when estimating resource needs. A separate fact with varying type of information may be required for each functional unit. In some districts standard Fact Sheet may be available. This effort should be coordinated with the project manager and the involved functional units.